Up until the post WWII era, the Reggiana was the main breed of cow in the province of Reggio Emilia. A beautiful beast, this unique cow has a striking red coat. During recent times, these red cows were replaced by more typical and productive black and white cows. Sadly, by the late 1980's only a few red cows remained. However, during the last few years, the breed has been reinvigorated and is now being used for the production of small quantities of special Parmigiano Reggiano. Fanticini produces small quantities of "Vacche Rosse" in their family dairy in Villa Sabbione (near Reggio Emilia), using milk from the Raggio Cigarini Farm. This "Red Cow" variety tastes like the Parmigiano Reggiano of yesteryear. The milk of the red cows is characterized by a higher butterfat content and contains more proteins. This combination allows for the production of a cheese that is better suited for a longer period of aging, requiring a minimum of 30 months, compared to the 24 month aging period of most other Parmigiano Reggianos. Its unique nutty, fruity, grassy flavor is richer than most Reggianos and its texture is somehow creamier, even though it is aged for a much longer time. Reserve it for the most special dishes, or eat it like the Italians do - chunked and drizzled with thick, expensive Balsamico.

This is definitely a first class Parmigiano Reggiano, but don't anticipate using it like you traditionally would. It isn't as sharp as most PR, but has much more nuanced and delicate flavor that is out of this world.

By Lee L.from Naples, FLon Jun 26, 2016

The Best!

In our opinion, the best Parmigiano Reggiano being sold in the US, always good...

By Dr. Brianfrom Whets Chester, OHon May 06, 2016

Excellent Parmigiano

This was my first order via Igourmet, and everything went just as expected. I will not hesitate to Order again. The cheese was first class. That cheese with EVOO and good European bread is practically a meal itself. Oh, I forgot to add the wine! Can't go wrong with that.

By Cesarfrom NCon Mar 27, 2016

Best Parmigiano

I am glad I could find this chesse in USA
The flavour is fantastic

By DianeJKSfrom Bel air MDon Nov 26, 2015

Mom loved it

My Italian mom grew up in Brooklyn so she loves to get authentic Italian cheeses from there. This fit the bill perfectly.

By Cowgirlfrom Caon Dec 27, 2014

Perfect!

Love this cheese; and appreciated the care in which it was packaged. Definitely buy again.

By The Doctorfrom Chapel Hill, NCon Nov 02, 2014

very good but not better than top-grade stravecchio

In an absolute sense, this is an excellent P-R, but I don't think it's worth the price premium over the Top Grade 3-Year-Aged Stravecchio version, and it may not even taste as good. It was worth trying, but I won't be buying more.

By N/Afrom Indianaon Aug 24, 2014

Parmigiano Reggiano Vacche Rosse

Absolutely wonderful. Incredible with some aged balsamic vinegar!

By Victoriafrom Illinoison Jul 20, 2014

Very good

Nice, strong flavor & shreds well. I'll buy this again!

By gordonleefrom VAon Jul 05, 2014

now they reduce the price...

... but i'd buy it again. delicate, sweet, succulent. tremendous flavor addition to any pasta sauce. i enjoy it both as a grating cheese (sorry italians) and an eating cheese. in fact, when it comes to eating cheese, it's parmigiano reggiano or nothing at all.